DSWD calls for food donations, volunteers for Walang Gutom Kitchen

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) yesterday called on restaurants and fast food outlets for donations for the agency’s newly-opened Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGP).

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said they also need volunteers who are willing to help run the WGP.

“I’d like to announce that we are looking for food donations as well as service donations. We encourage organizations and individuals who want to help us combat hunger to go to Walang Gutom Kitchen at Nasdake Building in Pasay City so they can become our volunteer server for the day,” he noted in a video message posted on the DSWD Facebook page.

The facility was a former Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub later but was repurposed as a DSWD Pag-abot center.

Launched on Dec. 16, the WGP is the DSWD’s latest program that offers holistic solutions to homelessness and hunger.

Its primary clientele are children, individuals and families in street situations and other Filipinos experiencing involuntary hunger.

Gatchalian added the program will not only address involuntary hunger but will also prevent food wastage.

“We want to put an end to hunger but where will we get the food? Because this soup kitchen also serves as food bank where hotels, restaurants and fast food bring the food that were not sold for the day,” he said.

The official committed to opening more soup kitchen nationwide in the coming months to realize President Marcos’ vision of a hunger-free Philippines.